Intravenous Drips, or IV drips, are used to deliver medicine, fluids, or nutrients directly into the patient’s bloodstream through a vein. A catheter, a small tube, is inserted, typically in the veins of the arm or hand, and the fluid or medicine is contained in a drip bag. A drip is the slow, controlled delivery of the solution/fluid through an IV line using an infusion pump or gravity. In this article, we will discuss IV drips and how they work.

Uses of IV drips 

• Hydration IV drips contain saline or lactated Ringer’s solution and are used in cases of dehydration, post-exercise recovery, and heat exhaustion.
• Medicines are also delivered using an IV. Medicines such as antibiotics, painkillers, sedatives, or anti-nausea drugs.
• Electrolyte replacement or replenishment is also carried out using an IV during illness and after strenuous activity.
• It also helps provide essential nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and glucose, usually when a patient cannot absorb or eat food.
• Used in transfusion of blood and plasma or platelets directly into the bloodstream. It is generally used in cases of severe blood loss or anaemia.
• There are special cases where IV is used, such as Chemotherapy, Immunotherapy and IV drip for Wellness.

What are the benefits of IV?

• Absorbs rapidly, providing fast fluid delivery directly into the bloodstream for immediate effect.
• The dosage can be customised as per individual needs.
• It is administered directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system, and is ideal for patients suffering from vomiting, nausea, or malabsorption.
• IV supports faster recovery from dehydration, nutrient deficiency and dehydration.

What does an IV drip contain?

• First is fluids, like saline and dextrose.
• Contains medication such as painkillers, anti-nausea drugs and antibiotics.
• To restore electrolytes in the system, IV could have electrolytes.
• For nutrient replenishment, vitamins and minerals.
• Blood and plasma are used in cases of severe anaemia or blood loss.

How are drips administered?

• First, the drips are prepared, and a vein is selected. The area is then cleaned with antiseptic to avoid infection.
• A small needle punctures the vein, after which the needle is removed, leaving the plastic catheter in its place. Later, the catheter is secured to keep it stable.
• After the catheter is set up, an IV is set up, which contains the medicine or fluid and is hung on a stand above the patient.
• After setting up the IV bag, the drip and its flow are monitored regularly to ensure the correct dosage and the patient’s vital signs are checked as well.

Precautions and Risks 

There are certain risks involved, and an individual should take certain precautions.

• If the site is not clean, it could lead to infection.
• If the needle punctures the surrounding tissue instead of the vein, the fluid could leak, leading to infiltration.
• Patients could have allergic reactions to additives and medication.
• Too much fluid could have an adverse impact on the heart and kidneys, a condition known as overhydration.
• A rare condition, air embolism, could occur if air enters the IV line.

Conclusion

IV Drip Therapy is a quick, easy, and effective way of administering medication, minerals, and electrolytes. It is used in different cases, such as dehydration and blood loss, and also in wellness and fitness.